The High School ACT NOW club recently held intimate and proactive assemblies for younger peers to raise awareness of the red flags demonstrated by those contemplating suicide. The assembly held a series of seven skits, written by former students and performed by senior Natural Helper trainers, on situations that can provoke suicidal thoughts in teenagers and the ways in which these tendencies can be broached. 

“This is a topic that is serious, important and real,” adviser Mary Mitchell said. “Almost all suicides are preventable. Knowing the signs are the first line of defense.”   

ACT NOW’s theater group aims to promote and raise awareness of the importance of mental health, building emotional resilience, maintaining physical well-being and developing coping skills. The group also aims to highlight resources available in support of mental health and advocacy within the school community. 

Ms. Mitchell explained that ACT NOW Club seniors involved with the assembly received training with Response of Suffolk County and through the Natural Helpers Program. 

The program format included suicide prevention awareness skits illuminating the red flags of suicidal thoughts and the instances that provoke them. The skits included “Snapchat Post,” “Sister,” Classroom Chatter LGBTQ,” “Locker Room Football Player,” “Solo Cup,” “Boyfriend 911,” and “Cafeteria.”   

After each of the skits, the Natural Helpers senior trainers spoke with those in attendance in small break-out groups, about what suicide ideation may sound like, warning signs and red flags. Also discussed were the resources available to students. The assembly concluded with a Q&A session and cast member feedback.